July 18, 2025 KwikSafety Main Account

When to Replace Your Hi-Vis Safety Shirt

Fading, Fraying & Failing ANSI Standards: What You Need to Know

Hi-vis safety shirts are a first line of defense when it comes to staying seen and staying safe. But like any piece of PPE, these shirts don't last forever. Over time, visibility can fade, reflective tape can peel, and fabric can weaken—all of which can put workers at risk. So how do you know when it’s time for a replacement?

Let’s break it down. 👇

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🔄 Why Replacement Matters: It’s About More Than Looks

High-visibility shirts are designed to keep workers visible in hazardous environments, especially near traffic, heavy machinery, or low-light conditions. When your shirt's color fades or the reflective tape wears out, you become significantly less visible—defeating the purpose of wearing hi-vis in the first place.

Failing to replace a compromised shirt could also mean falling out of ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 compliance, which can lead to fines and liability issues for employers.

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⚠️ 5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Hi-Vis Shirt

Sign	What to Look For	Why It Matters
Color Fading	Neon yellow or orange looks dull or washed out	Reduces daytime visibility
Reflective Tape Peeling or Cracking	Tape is lifting, cracked, or no longer reflective	Lowers night visibility & breaks ANSI compliance
Tears or Holes	Rips near seams, arms, or torso	Compromises safety & professionalism
Permanent Stains	Dirt, grease, or chemicals that won’t wash out	Interferes with shirt’s visibility
Loss of Fit or Shape	Shirt is overly stretched or shrunk	Impacts comfort and full coverage

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📅 Replacement Frequency Guidelines

There’s no universal expiration date, but most safety professionals recommend replacing hi-vis shirts every 6–12 months, depending on:

Jobsite Conditions (e.g. sun, grime, or chemicals)
Frequency of Use
Laundering Habits
ANSI Compliance Requirements

💡 Pro Tip: If your safety shirt is no longer clearly visible from 1,000 feet away during the day or night, it’s time for a new one.

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✅ Stay Compliant, Stay Safe

To remain ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 compliant, hi-vis shirts must maintain their retroreflective properties and color intensity. Employers are responsible for providing and maintaining compliant PPE, so routine inspections are key.

We recommend performing weekly visual checks and documenting any replacements as part of your safety program.

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👀 Final Thoughts: Visibility is Safety

Replacing your hi-vis shirt isn’t just about looking sharp on the job—it’s a matter of personal safety and regulatory compliance. If your shirt isn’t doing its job anymore, it’s time to get one that will.

🔗 Click here to shop ANSI-compliant hi-vis safety shirts designed to last.

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